Tasting Notes
Robert Parker 91-93
Aromas of plums, raspberries and sweet spices introduce the 2021 Pavillon Rouge, a medium to full-bodied, velvety and vibrant wine that’s impressively rich and mouthfilling, revealing a deep core of fruit framed by powdery tannins and lively acids, concluding with a long, saline finish. The blend is 73% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot and 4% Cabernet Franc, and Philippe Bascaules observes that parcels planted 20 years ago and destined for the grand vin when they’re a bit older are increasingly making the cut for Pavillon Rouge.
James Suckling 94-95
A nicely rounded young red with fine tannins that are polished and poised. Medium body with a solid center-palate and a creamy finish. Shows wonderful ripeness and beauty. 73% cabernet sauvignon, 18% merlot, 5% petit verdot and 4% cabernet franc.
Decanter 93
Soft rose-touched blackcurrants, really quite delicate and pretty yet also expressive, the aromas clearly discernible in the glass with a vivid pink-purple rim. So smooth and quite sensuous, you get the crushed velvet texture and thrashing acidity straight away, giving a round mouth, with these spikes of piquancy from the Petit Verdot. Really quite perfumed too. Vibrant with an excellent aromatic display and so much freshness. ItÕs on the tightrope – balancing the austerity and the plushness, the richness and the delicacy, the acidity and the structure. Tastes young and sparky, like a racing car ready to go, all energetic and buzzed. A great second wine. 4% Cabernet Franc completes the blend.
Anticipated maturity: 2026-2040
Vinous 91-93
The 2021 Pavillon Rouge is soft, sensual and open-knit, all qualities that make it an absolute delight to taste today. A burst of red/purplish fruit, rose petal, leather and sweet spice gives the 2021 its upfront appeal. There’s lovely energy and brightness underpinning it all. Soaring aromatic top notes add allure, making it impossible to resist a second taste.
Anticipated maturity: 2031-2046
Jane Anson 92
This has a mirabelle plum, raspberry and red cherry character, softly finessed with texture and depth, given extra complexity by curling floral aromatics. Classic balance, siky texure, although with a less generous and rounded feel to the tannins than the past few vintages of Pavillon Rouge. 36hl/h yield, with around 5% lost to frost but no mildew because treated (organically) throughout the season. 30% of overall production.
Anticipated maturity: 2025-2038
